The combination of an aging population and growing concern over nutrition has led to the growth of the nutritional supplement industry. Many of these are taken to keep your joints flexible and pain-free (or at least less painful). Because many of these supplements are plant based or can be found in nature, they are frequently touted as a safe path to improved health. Even though such supplements may be natural and can be purchased without a prescription, they are not necessarily free of side effects, either on their own or in combination with other supplements and prescription medicines. It's important to tell your doctor when you are taking any nutritional supplements.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Among the most familiar of the joint supplements are glucosamine and chondroitin, which are generally taken in combination. These supplements have been studied extensively in Europe and Asia, and a recent study by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases found this combination to be helpful in relieving some of the pain of osteoarthritis, though they won't prevent further damage to your joints.
Glucosamine is derived from crab shells, so don't use it if you have an allergy to shellfish. The chondroitin sulfate may interact with warfarin or other blood thinners, so be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking these supplements.
Omega-3 and 6 Supplements
Fish oil is an omega-3 fatty acid, while GLA---which can be found in plant seeds of the evening primrose, borage and black currant---is an omega-6 fatty acid. Both have been found to help reduce joint pain and tenderness, but they have potential side effects.
While most side effects from fish oil aren't serious---you might belch or feel mildly nauseous and find a fishy taste in your mouth---some are worthy of concern. For example, if you take fish liver oil, you may exceed the recommended daily dosage of Vitamin A. Omega-3 fatty acids may cause an increase in bleeding or in the time it takes your blood to clot, which can be a serious issue if you take blood thinners or are planning a surgery. Also, if you take blood pressure medicine, fish oil could cause your blood pressure to be too low.
Take some time to find out which fish are the sources of the oil you are taking. Some species have especially high levels of mercury or other contaminants and may be dangerous for children and pregnant women. The Food and Drug Administration has a list of these fish.
Gamma-Linolenic Acid or GLA, like similar supplements, may increase bleeding or affect blood clotting, so use them cautiously if you're taking any other type of blood thinner---even aspirin. If the GLA you are taking is made from borage seed, the oils need to be certified as "PA (pyrrolizidine alkaloid) free," as these alkaloids can cause liver damage. Preparations of GLA made from the evening primrose may interact with some types of psychiatric drugs, such as chlorpromazine or prochlorperazine. As with fish oil, the main side effects of GLA are intestinal gas, belching, nausea and diarrhea.
Herbal Supplements
A long list of herbal and other natural substances are promoted for joint health. Among them, Thunder god vine, ginger and turmeric have all shown some potential in treating joint pain or inflammation symptoms.
Thunder god vine is used either in extract or as a topical solution. As with other supplements, you need to be sure of the standards of your supplier, as the extract can be poisonous and even fatal. Among its more usual side effects are diarrhea, upset stomach, hair loss, headache, menstrual changes and skin rash. According to the NCCAM, thunder god vine causes women to lose bone mineral density if they take it for more than five years and also decreases sperm count in men.
Side effects of ginger and turmeric are similar to other joint pain relief supplements, including upset stomach. It also affects blood clotting and lowers blood pressure. They also may irritate your mouth and throat or make those with diabetes to experience low blood sugars if they are already taking medicine to lower blood sugar.
Other Supplements
S-adenosylmethioninem, more commonly known as SAM-e, occurs naturally in the body but is also sometimes taken as a supplement. It has not been thoroughly studied for its effectiveness in treating joint pain. It may cause an upset stomach, and it causes agitation in some people. Another drawback to this supplement are its price and the lack of an agreement about the dosage needed.
SAM-e and many other supplements are not regulated. They share the problem of not having an agreed upon dosage, nor even anyone to investigate other additives that may be in them. Always be sure any supplement you take is prepared by a reputable company.
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